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IST → ERZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Erzurum International Airport (Erzurum)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a more dramatic showcase of Turkey's high-altitude interior, featuring the winding Euphrates tributaries and the spectacular Palandöken mountain range during the final descent.
Kızılırmak River
Watch for the shimmering bends of the 'Red River', the longest river flowing entirely within Turkey.
Munzur Mountains
Rugged, limestone peaks that dominate the horizon as you approach the Eastern Anatolia region.
Palandöken Mountains
The iconic snow-capped peaks of Erzurum's famous ski resort come into view during the final minutes of flight.
Erzurum Highland Plain
A vast, high-altitude plateau surrounded by peaks, offering a unique 'steppe' aesthetic before landing.
Erzurum Citadel
During the final approach, the historic city center and its clock tower are often visible near the airport.
The right side is unbeatable for sunset flights, as the 'Golden Hour' illuminates the rocky textures of the Eastern Taurus mountains. For winter travelers, this side provides the most dramatic views of the deep snow cover that Erzurum is famous for.
Black Sea Coastline
Initial climb provides a sweeping view of the dark blue waters and the rugged northern coastline of Turkey.
Pontic Mountains
Dense, lush forests of the Canik and Köroğlu ranges create a vibrant green belt beneath the flight path.
Sinop Peninsula
On clear days, the distinctive 'thumb' shape of the Sinop peninsula is visible jutting out into the sea.
Samsun Cityscape
The largest city on the Black Sea coast is visible midway through the flight, marked by its large port and delta.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. Keep an eye out for the transition from the humid, green coastal mountains to the drier, yellow-hued Anatolian plateau as the plane moves inland.
Distance: 1,057 km (657 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: ERZ (39.9565010071, 41.17020034789999)
Route Type: Domestic
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